Dec. 18, 2005 - Have you heard the rumor that they're
going to shut down the state park at Cooper Lake? Rodney Franklin certainly
has, but he says not to believe it.

And he should know — Franklin is the park manager for the South Sulphur
Unit at Cooper Lake State Park.

To clarify for those who may be confused, the South Sulphur unit of
Cooper Lake is still open and will continue to offer the same camping
options as in the past.

The Doctors Creek Unit on the Delta County side of Cooper Lake, however,
will have new hours of operation, according to Franklin.

According to Greg Dillon at the Doctors Creek Unit, recent budgetary
concerns and staffing cutbacks have led to new operating hours at select
state parks, including Doctor's Creek. But no parks at this time have
been closed.

"South Sulphur is still open," Franklin said Friday afternoon. "Some
people thought it was ... closed. It is not. The equestrian trail is
still open, as well. Currently, the South Sulphur unit of Cooper Lake
offers the same diversity of camping opportunities as it has in the past.
Visitors can enjoy state-of-the-art cabins, cottages, shelters and regular
campsites, as well as equestrian camping."

Those planning to visit the South Sulphur Unit may want to make note
of two special offers. From December through Feb. 28, special discounted
winter rates will be offered on all facilities, including the equestrian
trails. Also, on weekends from Jan. 13 through Feb. 10, campers can
enjoy a free night of camping on Saturday night when they pay for Friday
night. This offer is valid for tent sites, regular campsites, equestrian
campsites and screen shelters. For more information about the discount
rates call the park at 903-945-5256.

As for Doctor's Creek, that unit of Cooper Lake State Park will now
be open only on weekends for overnight camping, but will continue normal
operations at day use areas and the boat ramp. The park office, however,
will be closed. Camper registration on the weekends and day use permits
will be obtained at the honor box located on the northeast corner of
the park office. All camping on weekends will be on a first-come, first-served
basis, as no reservations will be taken. Also, the two cottages in the
park will be restricted from public use, according to Dillon.

Tira Boat Ramp will also be affected in the near future by staff cutbacks.
Beginning Jan. 16, a $2 fee will be collected in the honor box placed
at the ramp. A reduction in maintenance staff and other park services
was cited by Dillon as the reason for the new fee.

Dillon did note, however, that boaters will have free lake access at
the Johns Creek Boat Ramp.

For more information about park hours, operations and fees at these
and other state parks, Billon recommends checking out the web site for
the most up-to-date information:

http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/cooper_lake/

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